All occult training has in view the development of the aspirant so that he may indeed be a focal point of spiritual energy. It should be remembered, however, that under the law, this training will be cyclic, and will have its ebb and flow, as all else in nature. Times of activity succeed times of pralaya, and periods of registered contact alternate with periods of apparent silence. Note here the choice of words. This alternation is due to the imposition of the Law of Periodicity and if the student develops as desired, each pralayic period is succeeded by one of greater activity, and of more potent achievement. Rhythm, ebb and flow, and the measured beat of the pulsating life are ever the law of the universe, and in learning to respond to the vibration of the high Places this rhythmic periodicity must be borne in mind. The same law governs a human being, a planet, a solar system - all centers or focal points of energy in some greater Life. If such work as you are doing is to succeed (and it is largely the work of developing the ability to touch certain currents on mental levels - currents which [324] emanate from the higher self, from your egoic group, or from the Master) definite planned conditions must be provided. Certain factors must be present. If they do not exist, then the currents are (if I may so express it) deflected, and contact fails of accomplishment. If occupation with mundane affairs is necessitated - and such periods come in every life cycle - then the attention should be concentrated on these details, and the higher contact may be then temporarily unrealized. Such attention to affairs on the physical plane is not necessarily loss of time, for it may be as much a part of the plan at that particular time as any other kind of service. Full expression and consciousness on each and every plane is the objective, remembering that each plane with its varying states of consciousness is equally a part of the divine Life. What is lacking as yet with the majority of aspirants is a synthetic consciousness and the capacity to hold and register continuity.

If emotional or mental chaos exists, then again the currents are deflected and the brain makes no record of that which may be inwardly seen and heard. If fatigue is present and the physical body is in need of rest, then likewise the inner fails to be recorded. It is the centers in the etheric vehicle which are vitalized and become active in this work of contact and consequent transmission of energy; if therefore the vitality is low and the pranic fluids are not assimilated, then the whole vibratory contact is lowered and the center fails to register vibration and response. When again the stimulation is adequate and the other conditions are resolved into the necessary quietude, then again the currents may be encountered, response follows and a fresh cycle of receptivity eventuates. I have entered thus into explanation as I have seen many questioning, and am anxious that the process followed may be somewhat clarified. It is wise that all who work should have a clear understanding [325] of that work and should - along lines so closely affecting their power to serve - be fully aware of each step taken.